4052 Ulloa St.

District: Mid-City - Partial Control

Owner: C Dematteo LLC 

HDLC Staff: Krista J. Guzzo

Rating: Non-Contributing

Applicant: Ovella Enterprises, LLC

Permit #: 23-20294-HDLC

HDLC Guidelines: 

Section 12, Pages 23-24 of the Guidelines for New Construction, Additions and Demolition states that the demolition of all or portions of historic resources within a local Historic District or Landmark site are considered drastic actions, since they alter the character of the area. Once historic resources or buildings that contribute to the heritage of the community are destroyed, it is generally impossible to reproduce their design, texture, materials, details and their special character and interest in the neighborhood. When reviewing demolition applications at properties located within a Historic District or at a Landmark site, the HDLC uses the following criteria in its evaluations:

• The historic or architectural significance of the building or structure as designated by its “rating”: Non-Contributing.

• The importance of the building or structure to the tout ensemble of the area:  The building does not appear on the Sanborn maps until the 1973 or 1986 (specific date of map set unknown).  Due to the architectural details and style, it is suspected that this commercial masonry building was built sometime between the late 60s and 70s. The tiled façade, inset entryway, and asymmetrical roofline add interest to the streetscape, and while the building is appreciated by Staff, it was built outside of the period of significance and is considered Non-Contributing to the district for that reason.  

• The alternatives to demolition that have been explored by the applicant: None are known at this time.

• The difficulty or impossibility of reproducing such a building or structure because of its design, texture, material or detail: It is unlikely that a building with similar architectural style would be constructed today.  The aluminum windows, asymmetrical metal roof, etc. are not typical of modern buildings.

• The special character and aesthetic interest that the building or structure adds to the local Historic District:  None.

• The condition of the building or structure: Fair

Staff Recommendations: An exterior visual inspection was conducted by the HDLC Inspector, who found the building to be in fair condition. Staff does feel that the building has architectural value and aesthetic interest, especially in regard to the primary façade and the roofline.  Unfortunately, much of the primary façade has been obscured by graffiti. Additionally, broken windows and deterioration of the soffit and fascia at the eve on the left side of the building suggest long-term water intrusion to the building's interior.  As the building is is blighted and Non-Contributing, Staff has not objection to the demolition request.  

• Recommendation: No objection to demolition.